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Colón to Oranjestad

What do you get when you combine the Caribbean’s stunning waters and beaches with Central America’s biodiversity and pre-Columbian indigenous cultures? Find out on this intoxicating journey to Panama and beyond. Kick back and enjoy a relaxing day on blissful Isla Aroma, a picture-perfect deserted isle of palms and white sand where we’ll treat you to an amazing Windstar Signature Beach Party. Go ashore in Bocas del Toro where dolphins, sloths and toucans thrive in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its diverse ecosystem, beautiful beaches, and turquoise waters. Taste organic chocolate made from community-farmed cacao and get to know the native people who make it, and others who lived here long before the Spanish arrived – Embera Indians, Ngobe-Buglé, and the Kuna (Guna Yala). That’s a lot to take in, but there’s more. In Cartagena, stroll the UNESCO Old Town with its historic Inquisition Palace and Dungeons, then return to the ship for an unforgettable Windstar Signature Onboard Barbecue. Don’t fret about missing anything in port — with an overnight and full second day, you can learn how emeralds are mined and cut at the Emerald Museum, or savor the amazing flavors of pure Colombian coffee.

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Day 1: Colón

Explore the inner workings of the Panama Canal, head into the jungle to meet with Embera Indians, or take an aerial tram ride through the rainforest canopy.

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Day 2: Bocas del Toro

Bocas del Toro on Bastimentos island was visited by Columbus in 1502 and then built up with colorful and Caribbean-style clapboard houses by the United Fruit Company in the early 20^th century. Situated on the beautiful Bocas del Toro archipelago, the laid-back and friendly community is a great combination of races and ethnicities living harmoniously. West Indians, Latinos and Extraneros (the resident gringos) make this an easy place to feel right at home and embrace the relaxed Caribbean vibe of the town. Not far from town is the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, as well as two national parks, La Amistad and many banana plantations.

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Day 3: San Blas, Panama

The San Blas Islands of Panama is an archipelago comprising approximately 378 islands and cays, of which 49 are inhabited, some by the Kuna people. Scattered over an area of about 100 square miles, the islands are the number 1 vacation destination in Panama although the Kuna work hard to protect their land against overwhelming tourism and keep the islands healthy and lovely, unique and untouched by culture. These white-sand and palm tree lined islands are encompassed by a coral reef and warm, crystal-clear water that is perfect for snorkeling and is home to a variety of marine life including dolphins, sharks and giant manta rays.

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Day 4: Cartagena

Welcome to the sparkling city of Cartagena, where the gold and jewels of the Spanish Main awaited shipment across the Atlantic. No pirate could resist, nor will you be able to when you visit this historic city. The Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is surrounded by 400-year-old walls and contains a plethora of churches, fortresses, and restored colonial mansions. Outside the walls are more treasures: Climb the massive Castillo de San Felipe to investigate its maze of hidden tunnels, or shop for the perfect emerald.

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Day 5: Cartagena

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Day 7: Oranjestad

Known for having some of the best beaches in the Caribbean, this Dutch port makes it easy to just … take it easy. Walk through town to choose your favorite carved wooden door, or spend the day like the Arubans do playing dominos at a beachside table.